The International Grains Council on Thursday raised its forecast for the 2014/15 world corn (maize) crop, reflecting an upward revision to production in China. Global corn production was forecast to total 982 million tonnes, up from a previous forecast of 980 million and just shy of the prior season's record 984 million tonnes. "The bulk of the 2014/15 northern hemisphere (corn) crop is now harvested and, with better than average yields in many countries, the world production forecast is increased," the IGC said in a monthly report.
The corn crop in China, the world's number two producer, was put at 216 million tonnes, up from a previous forecast of 213.8 million but still just below the prior season's 218.5 million. The rise was partially offset by a downward revision for Argentina where a corn crop of 22.5 million tonnes is now seen, down from a previous estimate of 23 million and the prior season's 24 million tonnes.
"Seeding in South America has so far progressed at a slower than average pace. While output in Brazil and Argentina is expected to decline, much will depend on the final planting decisions and weather during the coming months," the IGC said. Global corn consumption in 2014/15 was upwardly revised by 2 million tonnes to 963 million tonnes.
"World demand is forecast to increase to record highs, driven by a 3 percent gain in feed consumption," the IGC said. The IGC also cut its forecast for the 2014/15 global wheat crop by 1 million tonnes to a still record 717 million, up from the prior season's 713 million.
Comments
Comments are closed.